World Music Specializations (BFA & MFA)

Before applying, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the World Music Performance Specializations, faculty, facilities, and curriculum and listen to student work.

Please note that you must complete all Admissions Requirements as well as the portfolio requirements to be considered for admission.

World Music Performance (BFA)

Portfolio Guidelines

Via the portfolio section of the CalArts Application, you are invited to submit a portfolio containing four examples of your artistic work.  The four selections should feature your performing and showcase your primary interests and strengths in World Music/Music. Your submission could include any of the following:

  • Improvising on your primary instrument

  • Playing a featured role in an ensemble

  • Practicing/performing movement vocabulary of indigenous cultures 

  • Singing songs from various cultures

  • Showcasing your original compositions/projects

  • Demonstrating proficiency on a variety of musical instruments 

Please number your examples beginning with what you consider to be your strongest ones—reviewers will examine them in the order that you indicate. Materials must be labeled clearly and completely, including, for each selection: title and composer (if appropriate) as well as your role in each piece (e.g. musician, dancer, composer, etc.). This information can be included in a separate PDF document, if desired. You may link to media hosted on external websites, but please ensure that reviewers will have permission to view this media.

African Music and Dance (MFA)

Please use our online portfolio submission system to present a high-quality recording(s) of yourself performing 15–20 minutes of music on an African instrument. We would prefer to hear both solo and ensemble recordings, if possible.

Indonesian Music and Dance (MFA)

Please use our online portfolio submission system to present a high-quality recording(s) of yourself performing 15–20 minutes of music on an Indonesian instrument (gamelan). We would prefer to hear both solo and ensemble recordings, if possible.

North Indian Music (MFA) 

Please use our online portfolio submission system to present a high-quality recording of yourself performing 15–20 minutes of music on a North Indian instrument. We would prefer to hear both solo and ensemble recordings, if possible.

World Percussion (MFA) 

Please use our online portfolio submission system to present a high quality uploaded recording of yourself performing 15–20 minutes of music on hand drums or other world music percussion instruments. We would prefer to hear both solo and ensemble recordings, if possible.

Auditions (BFA & MFA)

Applicants applying to any of the World Music BFA and MFA programs are required to participate in a virtual interview. There will be no in-person audition. Following your application submission, we will review your application and contact you to schedule your interview.